Several inquiries are underway after a suspected steering problem saw the Interisland ferry Aratere run aground near Picton.

On Friday night, the ship became grounded.

It was re-floated successfully last night on the high tide.

Maritime Union spokesperson Victor Billot believes it could be a while before the ship is back sailing.

"They're going to have to look at the steering system, obviously, they're going to have to look the hull...it's going to be a long time."

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